I can’t even remember where or when I had seen this quote, but ever since I did, I am reminded of it often, when with my students. Reminded of how taking the time to understand what it is that we are doing, why we are doing it and how it impacts others begins to explore that question of what is important.
Recently, our school had revitalized our courtyard and transformed the space into the ‘Seahawk Peace Garden’, a place where students can observe and study, care for plants and share their learning with others. Being in that space recently and watching the students engage with their surroundings, the care and attentiveness that they had when using the five senses to explore, was so inspiring.
Conversation surrounded the ways that we are connected to the earth and how we all need each other, how our community does not only include buildings and space, but all of the people and living things in it.
I am continuously in awe of the curiousity and wonderings of these children, who are so excited to learn more about the world around them. Their wonderings are what inspire what we do in the classroom and it amazes me the connections that they make between our world and their place in it.
Jenelle de Jesus (@jayceedeejay) loves beautiful picture books, as well as exploring and learning alongside her own children and students – all while drinking an amazing cup of coffee.